About Therapeutic Horseback Riding

Therapeutic horseback riding primarily teaches riding skills to students with physical, mental and emotional disabilities. It also teaches students companionship, confidence, leadership and responsibility. Therapeutic horseback riding is taught by instructors who are specifically trained in this type of riding program.

History

The first recorded use of horses to transport disabled people occurred during 600 B.C. in Greece. However, horseback riding was not used specifically as a therapeutic treatment until the late 19th century. German physicians during this period used horseback riding as a treatment for children with scoliosis and other orthopedic problems.

Instructors

Instructors in therapeutic riding programs are typically certified at the national level, allowing them to teach in any state without additional training.  These instructors must teach riding skills in addition to the social skills required for therapeutic riding lessons. Therapeutic riding instructors also need to know what accommodations to make for common disabilities.

Competition

Therapeutic horseback riding can also be a competitive sport. The Special Olympics is a world-class venue for participants with cognitive disabilities. It includes various equestrian events such as dressage and show jumping. Participants with physical disabilities may also compete in horseback riding at the Paralympic Games.

Organization

The organizations in the United States that deal with therapeutic riding include the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship and the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association. PATH is primarily responsible for accrediting centers that provide therapeutic riding services. EAGALA deals with the certification of mental health professionals and horseback riding instructors involved with therapeutic riding.